The 6 Most Profitable AI Businesses to Start in 2026
In this episode of the Growth Stacking Show, Dan Martell explores six AI-powered service businesses that are creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs. He examines how AI tools are transforming traditional business operations in areas like virtual assistance, content repurposing, and lead generation, with insights into potential monthly earnings and market projections for each business model.
The discussion covers how AI is reshaping workflow optimization, cybersecurity services, and regulatory compliance. Martell breaks down the startup requirements, operational considerations, and revenue potential for each business type, while explaining how emerging technologies and regulations are influencing these markets. The episode provides context about market sizes, growth rates, and specific tools entrepreneurs can use to enter these fields.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Dec 12, 2025 episode of the Growth Stacking Show with Dan Martell
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AI-powered Service Businesses
The podcast explores various AI-powered service businesses that are transforming traditional business operations and creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Virtual Assistant and Content Services
In the virtual assistant space, AI-powered businesses are offering support services to busy entrepreneurs and creators. These services require minimal startup costs, utilizing tools like ChatGPT and Gemini, with the potential to earn $10,000 to $20,000 monthly from just a handful of clients. The virtual assistant market is projected to reach $30 billion by 2030.
The discussion then turns to AI content repurposing services, which transform long-form content into social media-friendly formats. Dan Martell notes that practitioners in this field are earning between $10,000 to $30,000 monthly with just five to seven clients, using tools like opusclips.com and descript.com.
For lead generation, AI is revolutionizing the process by automating research, outreach, and qualification. This sector shows promising returns, with some agencies earning $30,000 to $80,000 monthly, driven by a 17% annual industry growth rate.
AI Automation and Security Services
Martell discusses AI implementation agencies that focus on workflow optimization, noting that these businesses can generate $20,000 to $50,000 monthly. He highlights youratlas.com, a voice AI automation tool from Martell Ventures, as an example of how AI can streamline business operations.
In the cybersecurity sector, AI-powered services offer 24/7 monitoring and threat response. While startup costs are high, these services can generate $40,000 to $80,000 monthly from a small client base. The global cybersecurity market is expected to reach $500.70 billion by 2030.
Regulatory and Compliance Services
Martell emphasizes the growing importance of AI governance and compliance services, particularly for enterprises handling sensitive data. He points out that this field requires medium startup costs but demands high effort due to the complexity of AI and data privacy laws. The market is particularly promising for those who stay informed about regulatory changes, with significant opportunities emerging from new mandates like the EUAI Act.
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Counterarguments
- The projected earnings for AI service businesses may not account for market saturation or increased competition as more entrepreneurs enter the space.
- The figures provided for potential monthly earnings are optimistic and may not reflect the variability and challenges of acquiring and retaining clients.
- The growth projections for the virtual assistant market and cybersecurity market are based on current trends, which could change due to economic shifts, technological advancements, or regulatory changes.
- The reliance on specific AI tools and platforms may pose a risk if those tools become obsolete, face legal challenges, or alter their pricing models.
- The text assumes a steady demand for AI services without considering potential pushback or skepticism from businesses that prefer traditional methods or have privacy concerns.
- The success of AI implementation agencies depends on the ability of businesses to integrate and adapt to new technologies, which can be a significant barrier for some clients.
- The emphasis on minimal startup costs for virtual assistant services may overlook other operational costs and the time investment required to build a client base.
- The text does not address the potential ethical implications of AI-powered services, such as job displacement or the misuse of AI for manipulative marketing practices.
- The complexity of AI and data privacy laws may not only require high effort but also specialized legal expertise, which could increase the startup costs for regulatory and compliance services.
- The text suggests a high profitability for cybersecurity services without acknowledging the potential liabilities and risks associated with providing security in an ever-evolving threat landscape.
- The assumption that staying informed about regulatory changes will create significant opportunities may not consider the challenges of navigating international laws and the potential for conflicting regulations across jurisdictions.
Actionables
- You can explore AI-powered business opportunities by identifying repetitive tasks in your current job and researching AI tools that could automate them. For example, if you spend hours organizing data, look for AI software that can streamline this process, and consider offering this as a service to others in your industry.
- Develop a side hustle by offering personalized AI-powered content summaries for professionals. Use AI tools to condense industry reports, research papers, or long articles into digestible summaries, catering to busy individuals who need to stay informed but are short on time.
- Stay ahead of AI governance by creating a newsletter that breaks down complex regulatory changes into simple, actionable insights for small businesses. Use AI to scan for the latest updates in AI laws and regulations, then translate these into plain language to help non-experts understand and comply with new requirements.
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Ai-powered Service Businesses
Discover how AI-powered service businesses are leveraging technology to offer valuable services to clients, including virtual assistants, content repurposing, and lead generation.
AI-powered Virtual Assistant Business
AI-powered virtual assistant businesses are growing in importance, offering support to business owners and creators with time-consuming tasks.
Supporting Business Owners and Creators With Low-cost, High-Income AI Tools
These AI virtual assistants save time for individuals who require help with emails, scheduling, and various tasks. The startup costs are minimal as you can utilize AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, or Fixer to equip the AI with the necessary skills. No special setup or certifications are required, and the business can be lucrative, with the potential to earn between $10,000 to $20,000 a month from just four or five clients. The target market for these services consists of busy business owners and creators who prioritize their time. The virtual assistant market itself is booming, and it’s expected to grow to over $30 billion per year by 2030, with an annual growth rate of 20%.
AI Content Repurposing Service
Convert long-form content into social media-friendly assets using AI, providing value to creators and businesses.
Leveraging AI to Convert Long-Form Content Into Social Media Short-Form Assets, Creating Value For Creators and Businesses
An AI content repurposing service employs AI to transform long video clips or podcasts into digestible content suitable for platforms like TikTok or Instagram. This service addresses the gap for business owners who do not fully utilize their content across different mediums, saving them from the time-consuming editing process. Starting up is cost-effective, often just requiring customer acquisition. Free AI tools such as opusclips.com or descript.com can help in the beginning, though learning these tools and adhering to specific brand guidelines requires medium effort. Dan Martell acknowledges the high income potential of this business model, noting that individuals already make between $10,000 to $30,000 a month with a modest client base of five to seven.
AI-powered Lead Generation Agency
AI automates variou ...
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Ai-powered Service Businesses
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Counterarguments
- The income figures provided for AI service businesses may not account for the variability and unpredictability of freelance or entrepreneurial income, which can fluctuate significantly based on market demand, competition, and client retention.
- The text assumes that AI tools can easily replace human tasks without loss of quality, but there may be nuances and complex tasks that AI cannot handle as effectively as a human, potentially leading to customer dissatisfaction.
- The claim that no special setup or certifications are required to start an AI-powered virtual assistant business overlooks the potential need for business acumen, understanding of privacy laws, and other regulatory compliance issues.
- The growth rates mentioned for the virtual assistant market and lead generation industry are projections that could be affected by economic downturns, market saturation, or shifts in technology trends.
- The assertion that starting an AI content repurposing service is cost-effective and requires only customer acquisition may oversimplify the challenges of building a client base and underestimate the costs associated with marketing and sales efforts.
- The text suggests that AI lead generation agencies require low startup costs, but it does not consider ongoing operational costs, such as software subscriptions, updates, and potential need for human oversight.
- The idea that companies highly value lead generation services because they directly generate revenue does not consider the quality of leads; not all leads result in sal ...
Actionables
- You can explore AI virtual assistant tools by setting up mock projects to handle your daily tasks, such as organizing your personal calendar or sorting your emails, to gain firsthand experience with the technology and its capabilities.
- Start by using a free AI tool to automate your personal schedule for a week. For example, use it to book appointments, set reminders for important dates, or even draft responses to your emails. This will give you a sense of how these tools can be applied to business needs and the potential time savings for clients.
- Develop a content repurposing workflow by taking your own long-form content, like a blog post or video, and breaking it down into smaller pieces suitable for social media to understand the process and time investment required.
- Use a simple video editor to cut a personal video into several short clips, add captions, and format them for different social media platforms. This exercise will help you appreciate the effort involved and the value such a service could provide to content creators.
- Create a basic lead generation process for a hypothetical product or service by researching and ...
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Ai-powered Automation and Optimization Services
Dan Martell elucidates the burgeoning potential of AI-powered services designed to streamline business operations and fortify cybersecurity measures.
AI Implementation and Automation Agency
Martell highlights the potential of establishing an agency dedicated to leveraging AI for optimizing business workflows, crucial for saving time and maximizing efficiency.
Maximizing AI-driven Workflow Automation for High Income, Medium Effort Businesses
Starting an AI implementation and automation agency involves medium startup costs due to the need for sophisticated tools to configure customer systems. The effort level is moderately high due to the complexity of setting up automated solutions, which may necessitate AI assistance. Providing AI with necessary information can, for example, lead to the automation of processes such as integrating a HubSpot CRM with a calendar plugin through Zapier. Income for such an agency can range from $20,000 to $50,000 per month. Platforms like Upwork and Make.com serve as conduits to find clientele.
Martell speaks of a product from Martell Ventures, youratlas.com, which is a voice AI automation tool that handles phone calls for businesses, streamlining client engagement with booked demos. Such connectors who deploy AI tools for local businesses can establish a recurring source of income through setup and maintenance fees. Businesses that lack initial knowledge but are willing to invest for the perceived value, such as small or mid-sized firms, are the prime targets. Notably, the hyper-automation market, inclusive of AI-driven business automation, is projected to scale to $249 billion by 2032, marking significant market potential for automation agencies.
Martell touches upon using a suite of tools for capturing calls and trainings, repurposing them into various content formats and suggesting substantial income potential for a business employing AI-driven workflow automation.
Managed Cybersecurity and Detection/Response Services
AI-powered 24/7 Monitoring and Threat Response to Protect Businesses from Hacking and Social Engineering, with High Start-Up Costs but Income Potential
The implementation of 24/7 monitoring and threat response services backed by AI to safeguard businesses from hacking and social engineering is detailed. While startup costs are unspecified, the implication is they may be notably high, in return for considerable income potential. Businesses prepared to invest in security, especially considering the sophistication with which social engineers utilize AI for hacking, are abundant.
Starting a managed cybersecurity service is a costly venture due to the specialized and expen ...
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Ai-powered Automation and Optimization Services
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Clarifications
- AI-powered services use artificial intelligence to perform tasks that typically require human effort, such as data analysis, customer interactions, and process management. They streamline operations by automating repetitive or complex tasks, reducing errors, and speeding up workflows. These services can learn and adapt over time, improving efficiency and decision-making. This allows businesses to focus on higher-value activities while AI handles routine or data-heavy functions.
- An AI implementation and automation agency helps businesses use artificial intelligence to automate repetitive tasks and improve efficiency. They analyze existing workflows, identify automation opportunities, and set up AI-powered tools to handle those tasks. This can include integrating software systems, automating data entry, or managing customer interactions. Their goal is to save businesses time and reduce manual effort through smart technology.
- Workflow automation means using technology to perform repetitive business tasks automatically without human intervention. Examples include automatically sending emails when a customer fills out a form or syncing data between a CRM and a calendar. It reduces manual work, speeds up processes, and minimizes errors. Common tools for this are platforms like Zapier or Make.com that connect different software applications.
- HubSpot CRM is a software that helps businesses manage customer relationships and sales processes in one place. Calendar plugins connect scheduling tools to other apps, enabling automatic appointment bookings and reminders. Zapier is an automation platform that links different apps, allowing data and tasks to flow between them without manual work. Together, these tools streamline workflows by automating routine tasks and improving organization.
- Voice AI automation tools are software that use artificial intelligence to understand and respond to spoken language during phone calls. They can handle tasks like answering inquiries, scheduling appointments, or routing calls without human intervention. These tools often integrate with business systems to update records or trigger workflows automatically. By simulating natural conversation, they improve efficiency and customer engagement.
- The hyper-automation market refers to the use of advanced technologies like AI, machine learning, and robotic process automation to automate complex business processes end-to-end. It goes beyond simple automation by integrating multiple tools and systems to create highly efficient workflows. This market is significant because it enables businesses to drastically reduce manual work, improve accuracy, and accelerate operations. Its rapid growth reflects increasing demand for smarter, scalable automation solutions across industries.
- AI can record and transcribe audio from calls and training sessions automatically. It uses natural language processing to identify key topics and extract important information. This content can then be edited into summaries, articles, videos, or social media posts. AI tools also help format and optimize the repurposed content for different platforms.
- 24/7 monitoring and threat response services continuously watch a business’s digital systems for signs of cyberattacks or suspicious activity at all times. When a threat is detected, the service quickly investigates and takes action to stop or mitigate the attack, minimizing damage. This often involves using AI tools to analyze large amounts of data in real time and automate responses. The goal is to provide constant protection and rapid incident handling to prevent breaches and data loss.
- Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services provide continuous monitoring and analysis of a company’s network to detect cyber threats quickly. They combine advanced technology with human expertise to investigate alerts and respond to incidents. MDR teams actively hunt for hidden threats and help contain attacks before they cause damage. This service reduces the burden on internal IT teams by offering specialized, proactive cybersecurity support.
- Social engineering is a cyberattack method that manipulates people into revealing confidential information or performing actions that compromise security. Voice spoofing uses technology to mimic a trusted person's voice, tricking victims into believing they are speaking to someone legitimate. These tactics exploit human trust rather than technical vulnerabilities. They ...
Counterarguments
- AI implementation and automation may not always lead to the expected efficiency gains due to the complexity of certain business processes that are difficult to automate.
- The cost and effort estimates for starting an AI agency may vary significantly based on location, access to talent, and the specific niche within the AI market.
- The income potential for AI implementation agencies and cybersecurity services may be overstated and could depend heavily on the agency's ability to deliver results and secure high-paying clients.
- The reliance on platforms like Upwork and Make.com for client acquisition may not be sustainable in the long term as these platforms are highly competitive and can have fluctuating demand.
- The effectiveness of voice AI automation tools like youratlas.com may vary, and some businesses may prefer human interaction for certain types of customer engagement.
- The projected market size for hyper-automation and cybersecurity may not materialize as predicted due to economic fluctuations, changes in technology, or shifts in business priorities.
- The assumption that small and mid-sized businesses are prime targets for AI automation services may overlook the potential reluctance of these businesses to invest in new and unproven technologies.
- The high startup costs and technical barriers to entry for managed cybersecurity services may deter many potential entrepreneurs, limiting the growth of the industry.
- The threat landscape in cybersecurity is constantly evolving, and AI-powered ...
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Regulatory and Compliance Services for Ai-driven Companies
Martell discusses the growing need for responsible AI governance and compliance services, specifically targeting companies that leverage AI within their operations and products.
Responsible Ai Governance and Compliance Services
Navigating Ai, Data Privacy, and Algorithmic Transparency: A Guide For Enterprises With Medium Start-Up Costs and High Income Potential
Martell highlights the complexity of laws, liabilities, and the potential exposure big companies face when using AI with customer data and within workflows. These companies, which have deep pockets and recognize the necessity for best practices in decision-making that can affect health, security, and privacy, require such services.
The cost of entering the field of AI governance and compliance services is described as medium due to the need for an in-depth understanding of AI and data privacy laws. The effort required is high because of a steep learning curve, especially for those not already familiar with the intricacies of AI and related regulations.
Martell sees a natural fit for individuals who are keenly interested in news and are continuously informed about changes in data privacy laws. These individuals could enter this business, understanding the shifting landscape of governance and bringing best practices to companies. He notes that the potential for high income in this industry is substantial, citing larger consulting fees and the critical need for compliance services, evidenced by mandates like the EUAI Act, which requires proof of trustworthiness in AI.
The opportunity for service providers in industries where government mandates compliance is particularly significant, as these provider ...
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Regulatory and Compliance Services for Ai-driven Companies
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Clarifications
- Responsible AI governance and compliance services involve ensuring AI systems operate ethically, legally, and transparently. They include monitoring AI decision-making to prevent bias, protecting user data privacy, and adhering to regulations like the EU AI Act. These services help companies manage risks related to AI use and demonstrate accountability to regulators and customers. They also guide organizations in implementing policies and controls that align AI practices with societal and legal standards.
- The EU AI Act is a proposed regulation by the European Union to ensure AI systems are safe and respect fundamental rights. It classifies AI applications by risk level, imposing strict requirements on high-risk systems, including transparency, accountability, and human oversight. Companies must conduct risk assessments, maintain documentation, and provide clear information about AI use. Non-compliance can lead to significant fines and restrictions on market access within the EU.
- Algorithmic transparency means making the workings of AI systems clear and understandable to users and regulators. It is important because it helps ensure decisions made by AI are fair, unbiased, and accountable. Without transparency, harmful errors or discrimination can go unnoticed and uncorrected. This builds trust and meets legal requirements for responsible AI use.
- Companies using AI must comply with data protection laws like GDPR, which regulate how personal data is collected and used. They face liability if AI decisions cause harm, such as discrimination or safety risks. Transparency laws may require companies to explain how AI algorithms make decisions. Failure to comply can result in fines, lawsuits, and reputational damage.
- AI decision-making affects health because it can influence medical diagnoses, treatment plans, and patient care outcomes. It impacts security by controlling access to sensitive systems and detecting threats, where errors can lead to breaches or harm. Privacy is affected as AI processes vast amounts of personal data, risking unauthorized use or exposure. Therefore, ensuring AI decisions are accurate, transparent, and compliant is critical to protect individuals and organizations.
- "Medium start-up costs" here refer to the financial investment needed to acquire specialized knowledge, tools, and legal expertise in AI governance and data privacy. This includes expenses for training, certifications, legal consultations, and technology platforms to monitor compliance. It is higher than a simple service business but lower than launching a full-scale tech company. These costs reflect the balance between technical complexity and regulatory requirements.
- AI and data privacy laws are complex because they combine rapidly evolving technology with strict legal standards designed to protect personal information. Understanding these laws requires knowledge of how AI systems collect, process, and use data, as well as the legal obligations to ensure transparency, fairness, and security. Challenges include keeping up with frequent regulatory updates, interpreting ambiguous rules, and applying them to diverse AI applications. Compliance also demands technical expertise to implement safeguards and document processes for audits and legal scrutiny.
- "Proof of trustworthiness in AI" means demonstrating that an AI system operates safely, fairly, and transparently. This is shown through documentation, audits, and compliance with ethical standards and legal regulations. It often involves testing for bias, ensuring data privacy, and providing clear explanations of how AI decisions are made. Regulatory frameworks like the EU AI Act require companies to provide this evidence to gain market approval.
- Established AI tool providers are preferred because they typically have more mature data governance frameworks and proven compliance with regulations. They have undergone rigorous audits and have resources to maintain security and privacy standards. Startups may lack the experience, infrastructure, or certifications needed to ensure reliable data handling. This reduces risk for companies relying on AI tools in sensitive or regulated environments.
- Compliance budge ...
Counterarguments
- While the text suggests that medium startup costs are required due to the need for a deep understanding of AI and data privacy laws, it's possible that the costs could be higher than anticipated when considering the need for legal expertise, technology infrastructure, and ongoing training to keep up with the rapidly evolving field.
- The assertion that the effort to enter the AI governance and compliance field is high might be understated; it could be even more challenging than described due to the continuous and rapid advancements in AI technology and the legislative landscape.
- The idea that individuals who are continuously informed about changes in data privacy laws are well-suited to enter this business might overlook the need for additional skills such as technical AI expertise, strategic thinking, and the ability to implement complex compliance systems.
- The high income potential mentioned may not be as easily attainable as suggested, considering the competition in the field and the potential for market saturation as more service providers enter the space.
- The preference for established AI tool providers over startups due to data governance concerns might not always hold true, as startups could offer innovative solutions that better address specific compliance needs or introduce new technologies that established companies have not yet adopted.
- The notion that there is a market opportunity to help startups become compliant might be overly optimistic if startups lack the resources to invest i ...
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